Leadership Forum: The Podcast

Kathy Sullivan learned early in her career at NASA that it was much too risky to be a “yes person” just to appease someone’s ego — passivity could lead to dangerous consequences. Her varied experiences and leadership roles have taught her that courage and confidence in our authority as leaders can change the way we communicate and, therefore, the way our team responds to us. Tune in as Sullivan discusses actions that define leadership and ways to develop an environment where everyone can blossom and work collectively toward mission success.

Tracie Ransom advocates for diversity, equity, inclusion and allyship that moves beyond performative proclamations to authentic actions. In this conversation, she divulges her expertise for leaders to strategically direct organizations to diverse, inclusive excellence. Learn about the business case for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); steps for strategic implementation of DEI goals; how to measure success; and how to bring your team along with you — especially in the face of opposition.

At the Volcker Alliance, Tom Ross works to support current and aspiring public servants. Throughout his career, he has led with empathy, understanding that each of his decisions impact people and their lives. In this episode, he shares his equation for successful leadership: Be honest, gather feedback, know yourself, embrace diversity, and empower the talent around you. 

Women are impacted by the world differently. These diverse experiences help women form unique leadership styles, which are becoming more essential in public service workplaces and beyond. The inspirational Wendy Smooth and Stacy Rastauskas join Tina Pierce for our first Leadership Forum: The POWERcast, which focuses on challenges specific to women leaders. This powerful panel shares ways to find your passion and get started in public service and how they have channeled their unique experiences into leadership growth. 

Stacy Rastauskas, vice president for government affairs at The Ohio State University 

Wendy Smooth, associate professor of women’s, gender and sexuality studies, College of Arts and Sciences; and associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion, Office of Academic Affairs, Ohio State

Tina Pierce, POWER program manager and senior lecturer, John Glenn College of Public Affairs 

Steve Stivers’ leadership style has evolved throughout his years as an Ohio Army National Guard soldier and major general, a congressman and now a CEO. In this conversation with Dean Brown, he shares the important leadership lessons he has learned in his career, how he guides diverse teams to win-win solutions, and critical lessons in communication from the military that help him gain and maintain trust as a leader today.